The easier river path

Your instincts tell you that people could need assistance at the source of the smoke, but you decide your first duty is your own survival and safety. An external source of water would be a good think to have, you tell yourself somewhat guiltily as you walk down the hill in the direction of the river. After walking for about an hour, trying to convince yourself that you've made the right decision, you finally reach the gently flowing water. Taking out your personally scanner, you determine that the water, while the slightest bit brackish, appears to be clean and free from parasites.

Setting down your pack, you take out your canteen and water purifier and walk down to the water's edge to replenish your water. Just as your canteen hits the water, a tentacle snakes out and wraps around your wrist. It begins to pull you further into the river. You try to grab your rifle, but with one hand pinned by the beast, you are unable to bring it to bear. Further and further into the water you are dragged....its grip on you like iron. Eventually it pulls you under the surface as you gasp one last breath. As you succumb to the darkness, your last thoughts are that you should have followed your duty and checked for survivors at the smoke....